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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday stated that strict accountability will be fixed for every injury or death caused by dog bites. It warned that state governments, concerned authorities, dog owners, and even dog feeders and organisations representing them may be held responsible. The top court added that stray dogs cannot be in anyone's possession. "If you want a pet, take licence," the bench added.
During the hearing on the issue of stray dogs, the top court observed that state governments would be required to pay hefty compensation in cases where deaths or serious injuries are caused by dog bites. The court pointed out that sympathy cannot be limited only to animals when human lives are at stake. The bench raised serious questions over responsibility, particularly referring to the death of a nine-year-old child allegedly caused by stray dogs. “Who will be responsible for the death of a nine-year-old child?” the court asked, adding that authorities cannot turn a blind eye to repeated incidents.
Senior advocate Arvind Datar, appearing before the court, argued that the November 7 order on the issue was completely statutory and legally supported. He contended that there was no need to constitute an expert committee and claimed that the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules were in conflict with more than 60 central and state laws.
Datar also highlighted the threat posed by stray dogs in wildlife areas, flagging safety concerns for both humans and wildlife. The SC then questioned the role of dog feeders and organisations, asking whether their concern extended only to dogs and not to humans. “Are your feelings only for dogs, not for human beings?” the bench remarked. The court further asked why stray dogs should be allowed to roam freely and create a public nuisance, warning that strict measures may follow once responses from the Centre and state governments are heard.
Indicating a tough stance on stray dog-related incidents, the apex court said that if people want to feed or care for dogs, they should keep them confined within their homes or premises. The bench underlined that responsibility for compensation in dog bite cases would not go unfixed, signalling possible legal and financial consequences for all stakeholders involved.
The matter remains under consideration, with the court set to seek detailed responses from the Centre and states before issuing further directions.
